It’s fundraising week here at KCRW and even though we don’t get phone volunteers or snazzy premiums for the midnight shows, I feel compelled to do my part to raise money for this station. So, I’ve put together a show which features a number of CDs that are available within 4-packs put together by the “stars” of KCRW, including Jason Bentley, Tom Schnabel, Anne Litt, Henry Rollins and Chris Douridas. If you can, please  support KCRW, you can do so online right here. (more…)

The Incomparable Johnny Hartman

Johnny Hartman – I’m Glad There Is You

Generally, I like to choose brand new releases or reissues for my Heavy Rotation feature, but today is our 5th wedding anniversary and posting this would be what is most truthful to the concept of “Heavy Rotation.” This record (originally released in 1955 and Hartman’s debut as a leader) has been in heavy rotation for our entire relationship and it’s also been a frequent addition in the soundtrack to our dreams virtually every night. It’s in especially heavy rotation today on our anniversary. This track simply says it all…

Phoenix Performs on KCRW

It took me a little while to jump on the Phoenix bandwagon, but it’s hard not to like this band, great melodies, fun punchy electro rhythms, English lyrics for all the Yankees to sing, but with slightly French phrasing, so it still cooler than any “regular” American could sing. In fact their sound can be so enticing, that you might not pay attention to the lyrics. Case in point, is “Countdown.” The first 4 or 5 times I listened to this song, I was pretty convinced that it was all about sweet remembrance of youth, perhaps youthful discretions or other reckless behavior that just seems right when you’re young and oh so wrong once you turn 30. (more…)